New Zealand based Skywork Helicopters operated an Airbus AS350 B3e, powered by the Safran Arriel 2D engine, using a certified SAF blend containing approximately 35% HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids).

Originally planned as part of the Safran Helicopter Engines Customer Symposium, the demonstration was cancelled due to weather. Instead, the helicopter was called upon to support a missing person search and recovery operation and completed the mission using SAF.

The fuel was a certified Jet A-1 blend and was handled through the operator's existing fuel infrastructure, with no modifications required to the aircraft, engine or fuel management systems. The flight was completed without technical, operational or fuel-related issues.

This is an important practical demonstration of where SAF is today and not simply a future possibility, but a fuel that can already be used in real-world operations with existing aircraft and infrastructure. A significant step forward for more sustainable helicopter operations.